Neosporosis: Recognizing and Preventing Neospora caninum Infections

*Staff Note* – We know from several studies, that the gray wolf, and thus all wolves, as well as canines in general, are definitive hosts of Neospora Caninum. It has been noted by science members of Wolf Education International, that this particular report does not do a good enough job in pointing out that wolves, not only are definitive hosts, but in explaining the differences in the natural habits of wild wolves and other wild canines and domestic canines. Because of the vast territory wolves can cover, as opposed to domestic dogs, the threat of the spread of Neosporosis is greater in wolves than domestic dogs. This should have been included as an educational tool for understanding the prevention of the disease.

Neospora caninum is a major cause of abortions in cattle. First recognized in 1988, and linked to dogs in 1998, this parasite causes an infection called neosporosis. Studies have shown that at least half the dairy and beef herds in the United States have one or more animals that have been exposed. In an infected herd, up to 30 percent of the animals may test positive, and some cows may abort several times. With good herd management, through, you can reduce this drain on your profits. The Disease Neospora caninum is a protozoal parasite—a microscopic organism.<<<Read Entire Report>>>